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Types of Garden Flooring

Anton White
Anton White
January 2024
Anton White

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Garden flooring significantly shapes the look and feel of your outdoor space. In this guide, we delve into the various types of garden flooring, covering options from the durable and low-maintenance composite decking to the elegant porcelain paving.

We'll also explore natural choices like sandstone and brick paving, alongside versatile solutions such as gravel and poured concrete that you can use alongside our other options.

Tailored for every style and practical need, these flooring types can transform your garden into anything from a cosy dining area to a sophisticated outdoor retreat, ensuring you find the perfect match for your space.

What this article covers:

Types of Garden Flooring

Composite Decking

At Ovaeda, we're particularly fond of composite decking. This innovative product, merging wood fibres with recycled plastics, not only emulates the classic allure of wood but also sidesteps the usual upkeep challenges associated with traditional timber.

It's a sustainable choice, resonating with eco-conscious garden enthusiasts who are keen on reducing their environmental footprint. After putting it through numerous tests, we've found that it stands up to the challenge, maintaining its colour and integrity even under harsh weather conditions.

Its versatility is another feather in its cap; there are different types of composite decking, enabling a diverse and dynamic garden design. Whether you're envisioning a sophisticated dining area or a relaxed lounging spot, composite decking offers the perfect foundation.

Sandstone Paving

Indian sandstone paving is a natural and charismatic choice for garden flooring. Each piece is distinct, featuring unique patterns and a spectrum of colours from beiges to deep reds and greys.

This natural variance adds an unmatched charm to garden spaces, particularly those who prefer more traditional designs.

That being said, Indian sandstone does require a little more maintenance through regular sealing. This minor upkeep is a small price to pay for the aesthetic value it brings.

In garden designs, sandstone paving offers immense versatility. It pairs extremely well with the sleekness of poured concrete, creating a delightful juxtaposition of rustic and contemporary styles.

Porcelain Paving

Porcelain paving represents the epitome of elegance in garden flooring. Crafted from high-quality, kiln-fired clay, these tiles are a testament to both beauty and resilience. Their visual appeal is undeniable, bringing a refined and sophisticated touch to any garden.

But it's not just about looks; these tiles are built to last. They stand up admirably to a range of weather conditions, from scorching sun to freezing temperatures, without losing their charm. This makes them an ideal choice for those seeking a modern, sleek outdoor space.

types of outdoor flooring

When paired with the textured finish of composite decking, porcelain paving creates a striking contrast.

This combination allows you to demarcate different sections within your garden, each with its own unique character and purpose, harmoniously blending into a cohesive outdoor living area.

Poured Concrete

Poured concrete is a standout choice for garden flooring due to its remarkable versatility. This material can be tailored to your aesthetic preferences, offering options for colouring, texturing, or stamping to resemble other materials.

It's a practical and economical choice, especially when you consider its durability against various weather conditions once sealed.

Poured concrete works exceptionally well in creating seamless transitions to areas with composite or porcelain paving, lending a modern and cohesive look to the garden while complementing the textures of these other materials.

Brick Paving

Brick paving is renowned for its durability and timeless appeal. Available in a range of colours and patterns, it requires some effort to install but rewards you with a warm and inviting aesthetic. When brick paving is paired with porcelain paving, the combination enhances the garden's landscape.

The traditional look of brick juxtaposed with the sleek finish of porcelain paving creates a diverse and attractive garden environment, appealing to those who appreciate a mix of classic and contemporary styles.

Artificial Grass

Artificial grass has significantly evolved, now offering a realistic and low-maintenance alternative to traditional lawns. It's especially suitable for family gardens, providing a safe and friendly surface for children and pets.

easy outdoor flooring options

When combined with sandstone paving, artificial grass creates a visually appealing contrast. The lush green of the grass set against the natural hues of the stone strikes a balance between functionality and aesthetic appeal, making it an ideal choice for diverse garden activities.

Gravel

Gravel is a practical and cost-effective option for garden flooring. Its ease of installation and excellent drainage properties make it ideal for creating pathways or serving as a base for other flooring materials.

Gravel complements composite decking well, allowing for a smooth transition between different areas of the garden. It also pairs effectively with artificial grass, providing a contrast in texture while ensuring proper drainage, thus enhancing the garden's functionality and visual appeal.

Granite

Granite flooring is a stellar choice for those seeking both durability and elegance in their garden. Known for its hardiness, granite can withstand heavy foot traffic and adverse weather conditions, making it a long-lasting option for outdoor spaces.

Its natural grain and array of colours, from subtle greys to rich browns, bring a touch of sophistication to any garden setting. Granite's resistance to scratches and stains also means it retains its pristine look with minimal effort.

Ideal for patios or pathways, granite pairs well with softer landscaping elements, creating a balanced and visually appealing outdoor area. Its versatility allows it to complement both modern and traditional garden designs, making it a universally appealing choice for various types of garden flooring.

Limestone

Limestone paving is a fantastic option for those who appreciate a more organic and gentle aesthetic in their garden. Its softer tones, ranging from creamy whites to light browns, can create a serene and inviting atmosphere.

Limestone is relatively porous, which gives it a natural, non-slip texture, but it also means it requires sealing to protect against weathering and stains. This type of garden flooring is perfect for creating a relaxed outdoor living space, harmonizing beautifully with greenery and water features.

While it may not be as hard as granite, limestone still offers considerable durability and can add a timeless charm to your garden, blending seamlessly with both contemporary and rustic styles.

Why Should You Lay Garden Flooring?

Garden flooring is far more than a mere aesthetic enhancement; it's a transformative element for any outdoor space. The first and perhaps most significant impact of garden flooring is its ability to define and organize your outdoor areas.

Whether it's carving out a serene dining space, establishing a cosy seating area for relaxation, or delineating clear, inviting pathways through your garden, the right flooring can bring structure and clarity to your outdoor layout.

This organization not only enhances the usability of your garden but also contributes to its overall aesthetic appeal, creating a cohesive look that ties different garden elements together.

Plus, investing in quality garden flooring can significantly increase the value of your property. It's a practical upgrade that potential buyers often appreciate, as it suggests a well-maintained and thoughtfully designed outdoor space.

best outdoor flooring

Additionally, the right flooring can extend the usability of your garden across different seasons. For instance, porous materials like gravel or sandstone paving ensure proper drainage during rainy seasons, while options like composite decking remain cool and comfortable underfoot even in the heat of summer.

By making your garden more accessible and enjoyable year-round, you're not just enhancing your living space; you're also investing in a feature that can pay dividends should you ever decide to sell

What to Consider When Choosing Garden Flooring

Selecting the right garden flooring is crucial for creating an outdoor space that is both beautiful and functional. Here are some key factors to consider, each vital in its own right:

Climate

The climate in your area plays a pivotal role in your garden flooring decision. For instance, in regions with heavy rainfall, we recommend non-slip and water-resistant materials like porcelain paving or composite decking.

In contrast, areas with intense sun exposure require UV-resistant materials to prevent fading. From our experience, understanding your local weather patterns is essential for choosing a flooring material that will last and maintain its appearance over time.

Maintenance

Consider how much time and effort you're willing to invest in maintaining your garden flooring. If you prefer a low-maintenance option, composite decking or artificial grass are excellent choices as they require minimal upkeep.

outdoor flooring materials

On the other hand, natural materials like sandstone paving, while visually appealing, may need regular sealing or treatment to keep them in top condition. It's all about finding the right balance between aesthetics and practicality.

The foundation of your flooring will also make a difference in maintenance. For example, if you're installing composite decking over wood or putting your composite decking on wood frame, you'll need to keep the maintenance of the wood in mind.

Aesthetics

The style of your garden flooring should harmonize with the overall aesthetic of your home and garden. For a modern, sleek look, materials like porcelain tiles or polished concrete are ideal.

For a more traditional or rustic garden, natural stone or brick paving can add warmth and character. We always recommend considering the existing colours and textures in your garden and home to create a cohesive and visually appealing outdoor space.

Functionality

Think about the primary function of your outdoor area. If you're creating a dining space, you might want a stable and flat surface like porcelain paving or concrete.

For play areas, softer materials like artificial grass can provide a safer environment for children. In lounging areas, a combination of materials, such as gravel paths leading to a decked seating area, can add both function and visual interest.

Safety And Comfort

When selecting garden flooring, it's crucial to consider the safety and comfort it provides. Especially in spaces frequented by children or elderly individuals, the flooring should offer a non-slip surface to prevent accidents.

Materials like textured composite decking or paving tiles can be ideal for this. You should also think about the comfort underfoot, especially during hot weather.

outdoor floor options

If you live in an area that gets a lot of heat or sunlight, we recommend going for a colour that won't get too hot.

Environmental Impact

Another important factor is the environmental impact of your chosen garden flooring. If sustainability is a priority for you, look for eco-friendly materials, either through recycled content, such as certain types of composite decking.

Additionally, consider the long-term environmental effects of your flooring choice, such as its durability and the potential for recycling or repurposing at the end of its life.

Making an environmentally conscious choice not only benefits the planet but can also bring a sense of personal satisfaction and responsibility to your garden space.

Budget

Finally, it's important to align your garden flooring choice with your budget. While it's tempting to opt for the most luxurious option, many cost-effective materials can still achieve your desired look.

For example, composite decking can mimic the look of wood at a lower cost and with less maintenance. Gravel is another budget-friendly option that can be used creatively to great effect.

Remember, a well-planned garden flooring project can add value to your property, so consider it an investment in your home.

What Type of Flooring Is Best for Your Garden?

Choosing the right flooring for your garden boils down to what you need and what you like. If you prefer low fuss and want something that's going to last, you can't go wrong with composite decking or porcelain paving.

Composite decking is a champ when it comes to standing up to the weather without needing a lot of care. Porcelain paving looks sharp and modern, and it's tough enough to handle whatever the weather throws at it.

different types of outdoor flooring

If you're more into the natural look, think about going for Indian sandstone. Indian sandstone has a great, earthy vibe with unique patterns and colours, and is easy to fit into a wide range of designs. It might need a bit more TLC, but it's worth it for that natural charm.

Conclusion

Your garden flooring choice can dramatically enhance your outdoor living experience. Whether you opt for the elegance of porcelain, the natural charm of sandstone, or the practicality of composite decking, each option has its unique benefits.

Remember to consider factors like maintenance, climate, and usage to make the best choice for your garden.

And if you're looking for premium-quality garden flooring options - from sleek composite decking to gorgeous Indian sandstone paving - Ovaeda has you covered.

Types of Garden Flooring (FAQs)

What is the cheapest garden flooring?

Gravel is typically the most budget-friendly garden flooring option, but we recommend using it alongside something like porcelain paving to get the best effect.

What is the least slippery garden flooring?

Porcelain paving is often considered the least slippery option, especially when it's textured. Its low water absorption rate means less moisture on the surface, reducing the risk of slips.

Can I use gravel as a patio base?

Absolutely! Gravel is an excellent base for patios due to its drainage properties. It's often used under other materials like paving stones to ensure a stable and well-drained patio foundation.

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